"Identity" explored deep philosophical questions about artificial intelligence and the treatment of sentient life:
The episode was a technical milestone for the series, receiving several industry honors: [S2E9] Identity
In this conclusion to the "Identity" story arc, the crew of the Orville must stop the Kaylon—a race of sentient artificial life forms—from launching a genocidal invasion of Earth and the Planetary Union. [S2E9] Identity
: A pivotal and controversial scene involves the Kaylon air-locking a crew member in front of Captain Ed Mercer to punish his disobedience, demonstrating the Kaylon's clinical lack of empathy despite their vast intelligence. [S2E9] Identity